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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for software and security, managing vendor relationships and negotiating contracts.
- Company: Join HCLTech, a leader in IT solutions, driving innovation and quality in technology procurement.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values strategic thinking and continuous improvement in procurement.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in IT procurement with strong negotiation and analytical skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior team members and influence procurement strategies.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
The IT Procurement Software and Security Category Manager will be responsible for overseeing the procurement process of software and security solutions, ensuring the acquisition of high-quality, cost-effective products and services that align with the company's strategic goals. This role involves managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, and developing procurement strategies to meet the organization and end customer’s technological and security needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Business Partnering: Business partner with department heads and budget owners, becoming embedded within leadership teams. Support key business owners by providing education and managing key supply partner relationships. Advocate for the value of quality procurement and supplier partnerships.
- Leadership: Establish a strategic sourcing methodology for Software and Security Category that aligns with HCLTech’s policies. Lead continuous improvement activities within IT procurement. Provide SME input to any Procurement Transformation program. Mentor junior members of the procurement team.
- Execution: Deliver outstanding procurement benefits across cost, risk, quality, ESG, and innovation. Lead high-value supplier negotiations within the category space to deliver win-win outcomes. Act as a key escalation point for supplier performance management. Provide expertise in the information technology sourcing category, including market knowledge and sourcing best practices. Work with tactical buying team to manage renewal requirements. Provide day-to-day guidance as support to tactical buyers. Confidently negotiate with vendors at a high level ensuring best value and quality of services are maintained. Work collaboratively with all internal stakeholders (IT, Finance, Legal and Service Owners, etc).
- Category Management: Define and deliver Software and Security category plan and identify appropriate sourcing strategies which generate benefits and achieve financial savings whilst mitigating risk for HCLTech and its customers. Apply knowledge of Software and Security category to implement appropriate contractual safeguards, SLAs and other operational measures. Act as liaison between HCLTech and our vendors ensuring requirements and concerns are fully understood and ensure these are fed back during appropriate stages to the vendors. Use expert knowledge of software and security categories to deliver substantial improvements in engagement, contracting, and management of partners. Embed a category management approach to procurement across IT categories. Apply knowledge of contractual terms and conditions ensuring commercially attractive terms are agreed and contract spend remains in budget while mitigating risks in such terms.
Qualifications
- Educational Background: Bachelor's degree in business, Information Technology, or a related field. Professional certifications in procurement or IT security are a plus.
- Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in IT procurement, with a focus on software and security solutions.
- Skills: Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills. Proficiency in procurement software and tools.
- Knowledge: Deep understanding of software and security technologies, market trends, and vendor landscape.
- Attributes: Detail-oriented, proactive, and able to work in a fast-paced environment. Strong problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking.
Contact Detail:
HCLTech Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Procurement Software and Security Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the IT procurement field, especially those who have experience in software and security. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and best practices.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific software and security solutions that are currently popular in the market. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in vendor negotiations and how you've successfully managed supplier relationships. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your negotiation skills and strategic thinking.
✨Tip Number 4
Research HCLTech’s current procurement strategies and any recent news related to their software and security categories. This will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews and show that you understand their business needs.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Procurement Software and Security Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT procurement, especially in software and security solutions. Use specific examples of past roles where you managed vendor relationships or negotiated contracts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your understanding of the procurement process and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your experience in leading negotiations and developing procurement strategies.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight your analytical, negotiation, and communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. Provide examples of how you've successfully implemented procurement strategies or improved supplier relationships in previous roles.
Research HCLTech: Familiarise yourself with HCLTech’s values, mission, and recent projects. This knowledge will help you tailor your application and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company during the application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at HCLTech
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Make sure to highlight your extensive experience in IT procurement, especially in software and security solutions. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of successful negotiations and vendor management that demonstrate your ability to deliver cost-effective and high-quality products.
✨Understand the Company's Strategic Goals
Research HCLTech's strategic objectives and how the procurement function aligns with them. This will allow you to articulate how your role as a Category Manager can contribute to achieving these goals, showcasing your understanding of the bigger picture.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process. Prepare examples where you've successfully navigated challenges in procurement, particularly in managing supplier relationships or negotiating contracts.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentorship Skills
As this role involves mentoring junior team members, be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share instances where you've guided others in procurement processes or contributed to team development, highlighting your ability to foster a collaborative environment.
